The handlers learned how to walk with a balloon, duck it under wires and street lights, and spin it as Brian Epps of Big Events led them around Latham Park.

The Lorax will be joined by many other giant cartoon characters, including Elmo, Clifford the Big Red Dog and Super Grover, a news release from Stamford Downtown said. There will also be about 10 marching bands, many marching units and dance troops, and six floats to entertain parade-goers, a release said.

This year’s master of ceremonies will be Alan Kalter of “The Late Show With David Letterman,” and several of the city employees who helped keep Stamford safe during Hurricane Sandy will be grand marshals.

The parade was started 19 years ago and has become one of the most popular events in the area, drawing over 100,000 people last year.

It is expected to kick off at noon at the intersection of Summer and Hoyt streets and make its way through to Atlantic Street, ending at the Federal Street intersection. There are also several viewing areas with emcees, including the main stage at the intersection of Tresser Boulevard and Atlantic Street.

The Balloon Inflation Party takes place Saturday from 3 to 6 p.m. at the intersection of Hoyt and Summer. In addition to the filling of the balloons, there will be characters, music and other entertainment.